Latest News in Chicago, IL

Homeland Security Boss Says Federal Immigration Agents Haven't Detained US Citizens. She's Wrong

Kristi Noem, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, falsely stated that no American citizens have been detained during immigration operations, despite numerous reports of such incidents in Chicago. Witnesses and legal representatives confirm that U.S. citizens have faced detention and questioning by federal agents, leading to legal scrutiny and a possible extension of restrictions on warrantless arrests.

Newsmatch 2025

Block Club Chicago aims to raise $30,000 to sustain its nonprofit newsroom into 2026. The funding will support local news coverage amidst an evolving media landscape. Generous donors have pledged to match contributions, enhancing community engagement.

Newly Passed Bills Will Help Protect Immigrants At Schools, Courts And Hospitals In Illinois

Illinois lawmakers passed bills to enhance protections for immigrant communities, limiting federal immigration enforcement at courthouses and healthcare facilities. The new measures ban civil arrests at courthouses and require hospitals and educational institutions to develop procedures to handle immigration enforcement activities. These legislative actions aim to ensure safe access to vital services for all residents, regardless of immigration status.

Turner Hus Brewery Pauses Daily Operations As Dixie Pura Opens

Three new restaurants are set to open in Bronzeville, including the Southern Southeast Asian eatery Dixie Pura, which recently celebrated its grand opening. Meanwhile, Turner Haus Brewery has paused its daily operations to focus on future plans after operating for nearly two years.

Immigration Raids 'Haven't Gone Far Enough' In Chicago, Trump Says

President Donald Trump stated that federal immigration agents in Chicago “haven’t gone far enough” in their enforcement actions during a “60 Minutes” interview. He defended the use of aggressive tactics, despite public outcry and incidents involving the use of tear gas and rubber bullets against protesters. Local leaders continue to criticize these operations and seek peaceful resistance.

Wrigleyville Pot Shop, Apartments In Andersonville And East Garfield Park OK'd By City Committee

The City Council's zoning committee approved a cannabis dispensary near Wrigley Field and two apartment developments in Andersonville and East Garfield Park on Monday. The dispensary, set to open at 3650 N. Clark St., will be the closest to Wrigley Field, while the apartment projects aim to increase affordable housing in their respective neighborhoods.

Filming ICE Detention Of Man With Schizophrenia Left Bystander 'Trembling'

Federal agents apprehended Omar Huerta Cisneros, a man with schizophrenia, in Chicago Lawn while he walked to a grocery store. Bystander Edgar Manzo recorded the incident, providing crucial evidence for Cisneros' family, who struggled to locate him after his detention. Without the video, they would have remained unaware of his whereabouts for weeks.

Chicagos Black Harvest Film Festival A Platform For The 'Expanse Of Black Brilliance'

The Black Harvest Film Festival returns to Chicago from November 10 to 16, celebrating its 31st year at the Gene Siskel Film Center. The festival will feature a mix of digital shorts, documentaries, and repertory films, highlighting Black narratives and local experiences. Curator jada-amina emphasizes a focus on showcasing joy and brilliance in the Black community.

Nonstop Christmas Music Returns To 93.9 LITE FM Tuesday, Later Than In Recent Years

93.9 LITE FM will begin its all-holiday music format at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, marking a later start than in previous years. The launch coincides with a contest offering a trip to Las Vegas to see Mariah Carey perform.

Car-Free Meet Me On Milwaukee Events Will Return To Wicker Park Next Year

Wicker Park’s “Meet Me On Milwaukee” car-free events will return in 2026 after a successful pilot program this year. The events, which closed Milwaukee Avenue to traffic for several Sundays, attracted significantly increased foot traffic, benefiting local businesses. Organizers reported attendance tripled during the August event compared to last year.